Manchester United step up interest in Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta

Manchester United are seriously exploring their attacking options ahead of the winter transfer window and have increased their interest in Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to TEAMtalk.

The 29-year-old France international is being considered as an experienced option to strengthen the club’s forward line during the second half of the season. Mateta’s representatives are understood to have made contact with Manchester United, suggesting the possibility is being examined from both sides.

Jason Wilcox, an important figure in Manchester United’s sporting structure, views Mateta as a player who could add experience and greater competition to the attack, TEAMtalk reports. His arrival would give the club another established number nine alongside the options already available.

Mateta could provide competition for Benjamin Sesko

Manchester United continue to count on Benjamin Sesko, who joined the club to reinforce the attack. Their interest in Mateta does not necessarily mean the Slovenia international has been removed from their plans.

Instead, the club’s approach appears to involve assessing several possibilities before deciding how to adjust the forward line. Mateta’s Premier League experience and his recognised role as a number nine are considered qualities that could appeal to Manchester United.

His physical style and ability to operate inside the penalty area would offer a different profile within the squad. Those attributes could provide additional competition in attack as the club prepares for the second half of the campaign.

Crystal Palace interest in Joshua Zirkzee

Joshua Zirkzee could also become relevant to the discussions. Crystal Palace have followed the Netherlands forward, who is currently under contract at Manchester United, for some time.

The Eagles’ interest in Zirkzee may become a factor as Manchester United consider their options in attack. Zirkzee, who is of Nigerian heritage, could therefore be linked to any wider discussions between the two clubs, although no deal involving either player has been agreed.

For now, the situation remains at an exploratory stage. The contact involving Mateta’s representatives, Manchester United’s interest in the Crystal Palace striker and Palace’s long-standing attention towards Zirkzee are the main elements to monitor before the January transfer window opens.

Crystal Palace are also due to play Nottingham Forest in the sixth round of the English league. The published prices for that match list a Crystal Palace victory at 2.70, a draw at 3.35 and a Nottingham Forest win at 2.70.